Iraq vote underscores divisions over Iran’s role

Iraq election results underscore growing divisions over Iran’s heavy-handed influence in the country, weakening Iran’s allies as it seeks to revive its nuclear deal with world powers and engage with its regional rival, Saudi Arabia.

It also heightens tensions among Shiite factions in the country, potentially further complicating Iraq’s challenge in balancing its alliances with adversaries Iran and United States.

“The election results were a strong message to Iran that its political arms are rejected by the Shiite street” even if Iran will not let go of its armed militias, said political analyst Ihsan Alshamary.